Halloween is just around the corner, and children are eager to celebrate. As kids prepare their costumes and negotiate a later bedtime with their parents, drivers should brush up on the ways to safely share the road with trick-or-treaters.
On Halloween, the risk of young children being involved in a fatal automobile accident is more than double the average risk for any other day of the year. This is why drivers need to be extra cautious between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Halloween.
Tips for drivers on Halloween
There are things you can do to ensure you’re at your best behind the wheel on Halloween. These include:
- Avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drugs and alcohol can lead to erratic driving and slower reaction times, putting everyone, including yourself, in danger.
- Don’t be distracted by drinking coffee, playing the radio or using your cell phone while driving. Drive slowly. There may be trick-or-treaters in dark costumes, making them difficult to see. Keep in mind that children in costumes may not be able to hear or see you well, either, especially if they’re wearing a mask or something that covers their heads.
- Watch for children and their parents at crossroads and curbs. Also, watch for children around parked cars. In their excitement to collect treats, they may unexpectedly dart in front of you.
- Use extra caution when making a turn, entering or exiting a driveway and crossing an intersection.
Driving on Halloween may present additional hazards, so it is crucial to understand the risks and avoid a serious or fatal crash. By following these safety tips, Seattle drivers can help ensure that the evening remains fun and safe for everyone. A little extra caution can go a long way in protecting our young trick-or-treaters.